Are you considering updating your kitchen with a new built-in hob? While you shouldn’t tackle the installation process yourself unless you’re confident in your skills, understanding what’s involved can help you prepare effectively and make informed decisions.
From choosing the right type of hob to knowing what to expect during installation, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about fitting built-in hobs.
Understanding built-in hob types
Before we begin, let’s quickly review the main types of built-in hobs you might encounter:
- Gas hobs
- Electric ceramic hobs
- Induction hobs
Each type has its own installation requirements and considerations, which we'll explore in this guide.
Choosing the right hob for your kitchen
When selecting a new hob, consider factors such as:
- Your cooking habits
- Available power or gas supply in your kitchen
- Energy efficiency requirements
- Kitchen layout
- Compatibility with your oven/cookware
Hoover offers a range of high-quality built-in hobs designed to suit various kitchen styles and cooking needs. Our selection includes both gas and ceramic hobs, providing options to match your preferences and kitchen setup.
What you'll need to consider for hob installation
While professional installers should handle the actual fitting, here are some factors you should consider:
- Dimensions of your available space
- Type of worktop and its compatibility with your chosen hob
- Existing connections (gas or electric) and whether they need updating
- Ventilation requirements, especially for gas hobs
- Any additional components needed, such as a separate cooker switch for electric hobs
Hob installation safety considerations
Safety should always be your top priority when it comes to hob installation. Here are some key points to remember:
- Professional installation is crucial, especially for gas and electric hobs
- Gas hobs must be installed by a Gas Safe registered engineer in the UK
- Electric hobs often require installation by a qualified electrician
- Ensure your home insurance covers newly installed appliances
- Never attempt to install a hob yourself unless you're qualified
Preparing for built-in hob installation
Understanding the process can help you prepare effectively. Here's what you need to know about installing different types of hobs:
General preparation for all built-in hob types
No matter what type of hob you’re installing, there are some important things to consider before you get started:
- Measure your space: Accurately measure the area where the hob will be installed. This ensures you choose a hob that fits perfectly.
- Check power supply: Ensure your kitchen has the appropriate power supply for your chosen hob type.
- Ventilation: Consider the ventilation needs of your new hob, especially for gas models.
- Existing connections: If replacing an old hob, note the existing connections and how they might need to be adapted.
Installing an electric or induction hob
If you’re installing a built-in electric or induction hob, you should consider:
- Wiring: Ensure your kitchen has the correct electrical output. Most electric hobs require a 32-amp circuit.
- Cooker switch: You'll need a separate cooker switch installed if you don't already have one.
- Professional installation: Due to electrical safety regulations, it's often required to have a qualified electrician install your electric or induction hob.
Installing a gas hob
If you’re installing a built-in gas hob, you should consider:
- Gas supply: Check that you have a gas supply in your kitchen and that it's sufficient for your new hob.
- Safety regulations: Gas hob installation must comply with Gas Safe regulations in the UK.
- Professional installation: Always use a Gas Safe registered engineer for gas hob installation.
Installing a ceramic hob
If you’re installing a built-in ceramic hob, you should consider:
- Power requirements: Like other electric hobs, ceramic hobs typically require a 32-amp circuit.
- Worktop compatibility: Ensure your worktop can withstand the heat from a ceramic hob.
- Sealing: Special attention needs to be paid to properly sealing the hob to prevent liquid ingress.
Remember, while understanding these factors is helpful, professional installation is recommended to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Always consult your hob's installation manual and when in doubt, seek professional advice.
Installed a new hob? What to check
Once your new hob has been professionally installed, here are a few things to check:
- Ensure all functions of the hob are working correctly
- Check that the hob is properly sealed to the worktop
- For gas hobs, be aware of any unusual smells that could indicate a gas leak
- For electric hobs, ensure the cooker switch is functioning properly
If you notice any issues, don't attempt to fix them yourself. Contact your installer or a qualified professional immediately.
Understanding the process of fitting a built-in hob can help you make informed decisions and prepare effectively for installation. Remember, while this guide provides valuable information, the actual installation should always be carried out by qualified professionals to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
Are you ready to upgrade your kitchen? Explore Hoover’s selection of innovative and energy-efficient built-in gas and ceramic hobs. Find the ideal match for your culinary needs and transform your kitchen today!